World cup 2026 now accepting bribes: a fundamental transformation of FIFA’s world cup bid process

Abstract

The beauty of the game of football, while being played on the pitch, is unquestioned; however, the widespread corruption within the Federation International de Football Association (FIFA) has tarnished the on the field beauty of the game. The perception that football is corrupt became a reality after the allegations of bribery and vote trading that surrounded the 2018 and 2022 World Cup bid process. This article argues that to restore the public confidence in FIFA, specifically in the World Cup bid process, FIFA must aggressively punish individuals, nations, and confederations guilty of accepting or offering kickbacks, bribes, or vote trading, as well as protecting those guilty, or reasonably believed to be guilty, of such crimes. To assure that such a fundamental shift will occur, FIFA must work with other sports governing bodies to establish a World Anti-Corruption Agency. Additionally, FIFA must internally change its World Cup vote procedures to ensure fairness and transparency. FIFA must act with honor, integrity, and transparency to regain credibility and public trust. This article outlines the current rules and regulations that govern the selection of the host nation for World Cup, addresses the controversy centered on the selection process for 2018 and 2022 World Cup, and recommends a three-part solution detailing the necessary steps both FIFA and FIFA members must take to ensure the integrity of the FIFA World Cup bid process.